A bipartisan bill recently introduced by U.S. Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) would expand access to emergency medical services (EMS) for Medicare patients.
The Improving Access to Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Act, S. 5400, which Sen. Collins cosponsored on Nov. 21 alongside bill sponsor U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin (I-WV), would create a pilot program to allow Medicare to reimburse for treat-in-place EMS services for certain medical issues, in turn expanding access to these health services and reducing unnecessary emergency room visits and expenses.
“Having access to high-quality emergency medical services is essential for individuals in rural communities across Maine and the nation,” Sen. Collins said. “This bipartisan bill would expand the treat-in-place model for EMS services, reducing unnecessary emergency room visits, lowering costs, and easing the strain on our state’s hospital and EMS workforces.”
The Maine Ambulance Association and the Maine Fire Chiefs Association endorsed the measure, which has been referred to the U.S. Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
“I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan Improving Access to Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Act with Sen. Collins to advance the treat-in-place model in West Virginia, Maine, and throughout the country,” said Sen. Manchin. “I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this important effort that cuts costs and bolsters access to quality, affordable health services for our constituents.”
S. 5400 is the companion bill to the same-named H.R. 8977, introduced on July 10 by U.S. Reps. Mike Carey (R-OH) and Lloyd Doggett (D-TX).